Peatland Forest Clearance in Riau

Charred sapling and burnt stumps in recently cleared peatland forest area in Indragiri Hulu, Riau, Indonesia. Local witnesses allege it was cleared by palm oil company PT. Palma Satu (Duta Palma Group), although the area is outside the company’s official concession boundaries. It is also alleged that Indonesia’s Ministry of Forestry has not issued a permit for the location, which is on mapped peatland and tiger habitat and within an area that, according to official charts, is covered by the Indonesia government's moratorium on the issuance of new permits in primary forests and peatland. This case shows the need for an urgent government review of all existing concessions.